3
reasons not to buy

Some runners felt that this shoe didn’t have as much traction as advertised.

The shoe is available in limited color options.

It is slightly expensive.

Bottom line

The Inov-8 X-Talon 190 is a fast and reliable racing shoe that offers a precise and comfortable fit. It impressed most runners because it is so lightweight, comfortable and flexible. This neutral shoe was also designed for mountain and obstacle course running.

The X-Talon 190 is the type of shoe I would use to run a race with a great deal of climbing without a very technical descent. It performs great on turf with roots and mud, and in wet conditions of any kind. If I’m looking for a go-fast trail shoe for a sub-ultra distance race then this would be a perfect choice.

Updates to Inov-8 X-Talon 190

The Inov-8 X-Talon 190 features a lightweight and flexible construction, making it an ideal shoe for racing. It is equipped with necessary technologies that allow runners to experience optimal running performance.

The shoe features a water-resistant upper coverage. The upper is coated with water repellent compound. It keeps water from entering the shoe while running on wet condition. With its water resistant capacity, the foot is always dry.

Inov-8 X-Talon 190 size and fit

The X-Talon 190 is a unisex shoe and is only available in men’s sizing. Women who want to use this shoe should subtract 1.5 from the actual shoe size. This shoe comfortably accommodates those with narrow heel, medium forefoot and low midfoot.

Outsole

The outsole of the X-Talon 190 comes with an aggressive lug pattern that provides impressive grip on mixed terrain. The outsole uses the sticky rubber that delivers an impressive traction wet conditions. The Meta-Flex groove delivers natural forefoot flex. The overall design of the outsole gives runners optimal running performance.

Midsole

This shoe from Inov-8 uses the lowest cushioning level. It uses the brand’s 1Arrow Shoc-Zone that delivers minimal underfoot cushioning at the same time giving a very low heel-to-toe drop.

The Fascia Band is responsible for releasing energy with every step for a more powerful toe off. Moving forward is a lot easier because of this rigid lever arm that extends from the heel to the forefoot.In the midsole is also the injected EVA cushioning foam that gives efficient energy rebound and resilient cushioning for a more resilient ride. It also gives maximum memory retention.

Upper

The Inov-8 X-Talon 190 uses a synthetic mesh in its upper, delivering a more lightweight and breathable coverage. It keeps foot cool and dry for the entire run. The upper also features the durable water repellent material that it breathable and water resistant. The TPU Lacing System provides a secure fit that is strong and lightweight.